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Welcome to the Arachnoid Cyst Information Network

This website was set up as a result of my own Arachnoid Cyst diagnosis in 2005.

Frustrated by the lack of information and support available, I felt it was important to share what I had learnt with other New Zealander's who may be struggling with the same diagnosis and wondering what to do next.

The website does not offer medical advice.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with an Arachnoid Cyst, it will be helpful to know other New Zealanders are facing the same challenges and experiencing the same and/or similar symptoms.

If you are still reading, it means you’re on a mission is to find out as much as you can about Arachnoid Cysts; what they are, the implications of having one and what the prognosis is for someone who has one.

You may be feeling frustrated and/or uncertain and confused about what lies ahead.

This website does not have all the answers, but hopefully your journey will be a little easier and the process of gathering information and making decisions will be less daunting.

Any medical/health diagnosis can be challenging and often life changing, so try to maintain a balanced perspective and do not allow the diagnosis to ‘define’ you. Stress and frustration can cause additional anxiety, fear, anger, helplessness, loneliness and a sense of isolation, often exacerbating neurological symptoms.

Living in a ‘cyber-orientated’ society, there is an immense amount of information posted on the internet. Be mindful of what you take on board. There is a huge difference between data/clinical findings and peoples personal ‘opinions’ and ‘stories’.

Don’t be concerned if it is difficult to find literature, data and information on arachnoid cysts’, this is not uncommon for rare disorders.

Persevere until you receive the answers to your questions. It is your personal responsibility to determine what is right for you and your circumstances.

Listen to your body, go with your instincts, ask the hard questions, have open and frank dialogue with your Neurosurgeon/Neurologist and above all, be kind to yourself.

I hope you find some solace in the knowledge there are other New Zealanders managing the same diagnosis and doing so very successfully.